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The 2009 Geneva Motor Show marks the 79th year the Swiss super rich getaway and United Nations capital has hosted an automotive exhibition, and while a pall will no doubt be hanging over the halls of the Geneva Palexpo center due to the dire state of the industry, thankfully the usual assortment of world debuts and exotic creations will be on hand to distract our attention.

Everything from mega Porsches to ultra-luxury barges to miserly superminis will compete for attention on the Geneva show stands, with several dozen vehicles set to star for the first time under the bright lights, many of the bound for lands other than America.

Geneva’s a show where the Italians usually shine, and this year the spotlight will burn a little brighter on Fiat, who has been attempting to forge an alliance with ailing Chrysler in an effort to establish a beachhead on U.S. soil. An assortment of Fiat and Alfa Romeo models are rumored to be on the table for America and several will be at Geneva, flanked by the usual assortment of beautiful women. Ah, Italia…

As automakers rush to green their lineups, Geneva will also see more than its share of vehicles with various technologies on board designed to emit lower emissions, save gas and otherwise push the envelope of the future of propulsion. Some tech is close, some not so much, but auto shows are as much about the future of transportation as the present — and the future has a green sheen to it.

Stay tuned for our complete coverage from the floor of the 2009 Geneva Show, March 3-4.

For Alfa Romeo’s MiTo GTA (Gran Turismo Alleggerito) concept, Alfa engineers were charged with shedding as many pounds as they could from the already lightweight economy car (for those not in the know, ‘alleggerito’ means reduced weight in Italiano). As such, carbon fiber makes up the tailgate spoiler, roof and exterior mirror housings. Numerous suspension components, brakes and chassis parts were replaced by aluminum units in an effort to further lighten the car.

Fiat Powertrain Technologies was tapped for the all-new 1.8L turbo engine making around 240-hp featuring direct-injection, dual variable valve timing and an advanced ECU system to keep everything running in one piece. A “Skyhook”-like adaptive suspension similar to systems employed on Ferraris and Maseratis has also been installed to better lay down the power more efficiently. The GTA sits 20-mm lower than a stock MiTo and stiffens appropriately under hard cornering and braking maneuvers.

With the neon-green B6 GT3 you see here, Alpina plans to make a very green comeback to the racing game this year. The company hopes to race the car against GT3 class competition from the likes of Ferrari and Porsche. The best bit? You can buy one.

Based off the B6 S — which, in turn, is based off of the BMW 6 Series — the B6 GT3 uses a supercharged 4.4-liter V-8 to produce 523 hp 535 lb-ft of torque. Weighing less than 1.5 tons, the B6S is capable of accelerating to 62 mph in a claimed 3.9 seconds and to a top speed of 177 mph.

Alpina looks to champion the B6 in the 2009 FIA GT3 championship, but will make the car available to privateers and collectors alike. We can’t wait to see how it performs.

Think of the DBS Volante — the 16th convertible in Aston Martin‘s history — as the perfect cocktail: one part drop-top motoring, one part luxury, and one big part performance. Aston Martin claims a convertible DBS was always in the cards, so little work was apparently needed to lose the fixed roof and attach a soft-top. In fact, that’s just about all the crew at Gaydon did to create the DBS Volante, which is making its world debut at the 2009 Geneva motor show.

With the exception of the roof, nearly every aspect of the Volante is identical to that of the DBS coupe. Both rocket down the road thanks to a 510-hp, 6.0L V-12 engine that produces 420 lb-ft of torque. Both offer a six-speed manual or six-speed Touchtronic automatic gearbox with manual shifting capability. According to Aston, they’ll both do zero to 62 mph in 4.3 sec and top out at 191 mph, and they’ll both come to a quick stop thanks to carbon-ceramic brakes.

The Aston Martin Lagonda Concept is a daring move for the purveyor of high end exotic supercars, although understandable from a practical standpoint. Like Porsche with the Cayenne, Lagonda will allow the automaker access to a different market segment.

Aston says Lagonda will serve as a platform for advanced powertrain technologies, including diesel and hybrid systems and flexfuel options. As with other high end luxury automakers, the brand is keen on reducing its carbon footprint, and Lagonda will apparently serve as the vanguard for its overall efforts to reduce the emissions of its vehicles.

Very little is known so far about the concept vehicle pictured, other than it is an all-wheel-drive four seat vehicle, and as one would expect, Aston promises it will combine ‘exceptional ability with unsurpassed elegance, inside and out.’

We’ve been waiting nearly seven months for the ultra-exclusive Aston Martin One-77 luxury supercar finally to be introduced to the world. If you haven’t already put in your down payment and have a spare $1.43 million lying round, now may be the time.

Aston Martin is billing the One-77 — which is being revealed at the 2009 Geneva show after several teases — as the ultimate expression of its automotive know-how, with performance potential that eclipses any other Aston ever made. For a rumored 1.02 million pounds ($1.43 million at current exchange rates), we certainly hope so. Aston promises us the car will be rolling artwork as well as an incredible performance machine.

To make it so, the folks at Aston shipped their 6.0L V-12 motor off to famed engine-builder Cosworth for an upgrade. What they got back was a 7.3L V-12 monster that reportedly will make more than 700 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque in its final tune. As if that weren’t enough, Cosworth reduced the mass of the engine by 25% and fitted it with a dry-sump oiling system that will allow Aston to mount it almost 4.0 in. lower in the car than any other V-12 has ever been mounted in an Aston. In addition to reducing the engine’s weight and lowering its mounting point, Aston also pushed it back over 10 in. behind the front wheel centerline for better front-to-rear weight balance.

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage is the end result when British engineers shoehorn their biggest engine — a 6.0L V-12 making 510-hp and 420 lb-ft of torque — into the brand’s smallest model. Numbers and specs aside, the V-12-powered super car promises to be the “fastest and most agile Vantage ever,” according to the automaker.

Forged 19-in. footwear wrapped in V12 Vantage designated Pirelli Corsa rubber keep the power to the pavement, while a 0.6-in. lower and stiffer ride stop it from tossing side to side in the twisties. Boldly sitting behind the lightweight wheels are massive 6-pot 15.7-in carbon ceramic brakes up front and equally impressive 14-in. four-piston binders to the rear.

This Aston is said to hit the coveted 60 mph mark in around 4.1 sec. and achieve a terminal velocity of 190 mph in sixth gear.

The Audi A4 Allroad Quattro is the vehicle for the true wagon aficionado, an A4 Avant taken to a higher level of refinement and character. Seeing as Americans and wagons usually go together like oil and water, we won’t be getting the Allroad option here, which will start at 37,100 euros ($47,726) when it hits European markets this summer.

Of course, the Allroad Quattro starts off life as an A4 Avant, but befitting the Allroad’s special status new exterior trim has been added including updated front and rear bumpers, grille and air inlets, fog light surrounds, wheel well and sill trim, and a stainless steel underbody plate. Other external touches include special 17-in. (18-in. are optional) wheels, a roof rail system and sills with available stainless steel inserts

Engine options are three of Audi‘s best: the 211-hp 2.0L TFSI engine (0-62 in approx. 6.9 sec), the 2.0L TDI and the 3.0 TDI, which boasts more than a 33 mpg average in the European cycle and is capable of 147 mph. The 2.0L TDI is mated to a six-speed manual, while the other engines get Audi’s S tronic dual-clutch transmission. And of course, Audi’s quattro is standard.

With the introduction of the TT RS, Audi celebrates its history with five-cylinder engines. In the World Rally Championship, a 2.1-liter version housed in the legendary Audi Quattro aided Michle Mouton to an event win, making her the first female win a WRC race. Subsequent development of the five-cylinder engine brought more success to Audi’s rallying endeavors. In the production car realm, the five-cylinder S2 RS further cemented its legacy in the performance car world.

The five-cylinder makes a proper return, then, in the harder-core, enthusiast-oriented TT RS. Now turbocharged and displacing 2.5 liters, total output is 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, with the latter available from 1,600 and 5,300 rpm. Audi achieves this with a lofty 10.0:1 compression ratio, but facilitates the maximum 17.4 psi of boost with direct injection. A new six-speed manual transfers power to Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system, which uses an electronically controlled, hydraulic multi-plate clutch and biases power towards the front wheels. It can transmit torque to the rear when deemed necessary.

With a 3197-lb weight for the coupe (topless connoisseurs take a 131-lb penalty), Audi estimates acceleration to 62 mph will take 4.6 seconds. Both coupe and convertible models can reach a 174 mph top speed, but are electronically-limited to a more sensible 155 mph. In regards to sensibility, the RS returns 25 mpg and even offers a “Sport” button on the center console which actuates a flap in the exhaust to raise or lower the engine note.

The 621-horsepower Bentley Continental Supersports is fast. In fact, it’s the fastest Bentley in history. Engineering boss Ulrich Eichhorn claims the Supersports will sprint from 0-to-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, nail 100 mph in 8.9 seconds, and hit 204 mph. Eichhorn also says it is — shock! — a lightweight Bentley. Then he pauses and, with a twinkle in his eye, adds, “but it still weighs 4800 pounds”

Then there’s this: The Continental Supersports will deliver that staggering performance running on the same E85 ethanol/gasoline mix you pump into a flex-fuel Chevy SUV. That’s right, the fastest Bentley ever is also the first bio-fuel Bentley. So it’s a tree-hugger’s supercar? Well, that depends on how you track the carbon-dioxide molecules (see sidebar), although Eichhorn points out the Supersports is also 95 percent recyclable. “Not that this happens with a Bentley,” he grins. “Most of our cars typically end up in museums, not landfills.”

The byproduct of BMW‘s Progressive Activity Sedan development idea, the Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo attempts to morph the sedan, sport utility vehicle, and grand touring coupe into a single vehicle. As such, BMW’s Germanic perspective on style, comfort, convenience, and luxury can all be found in the Concept 5 Series GT — a vehicle the automaker claims is equally suitable for long journeys as it is commuter traffic or short trips to the grocery store.

So what is the Concept 5 Series GT, exactly? A PAS, perhaps? Let’s start with some dimensions. From the BMW perspective, it fits somewhere between the midsize 5 Series sedan and its X-model SU…sorry, SAVS. Essentially, at 196.8-in. long, 61.2-in. tall, and 74.8-in. wide, the concept slots in just under the 7 Series (199.8 in. for the 750i) in overall length and just under BMW’s X models (66.5 in for the X6) in height. Make no mistake — this is a relatively large vehicle. With an arching rear roofline blending into a turned-up spoiler at the rear, first impressions are of a vehicle in the four-door coupe vein, but with a rear hatch along the lines of the Panamera. Frameless doors — long a sports car staple — are also used for the first time in four-door BMW in an effort to lend it a sportier appearance. In fact, like the X6 the Concept 5 Series GT only seats four people, but this concept is considerably taller than, say, the Mercedes-Benz CLS. A gaping version of the famous BMW “kidney grille” is found up front, slanted forward slightly and quite bold in appearance, flanked by swept-back, traditional dual-round headlights with LED corona rings.

It will be difficult to find a way to justify Bugatti’s claim that its new Veyron Bleu Centenaire is the “ultimate limited edition,” in the words of CEO Franz-Josef Paefgen. That’s because while the automaker plans to produce a grand total of just one of them, there is nothing different about it other than its matte-and-gloss blue paintjob. Forget painting the town red for the 100th anniversary of the company’s creating by Ettore Bugatti, instead, its painting the Veyron blue.

Chevy’s well-received Beat minicar concept is coming to life in the form of the five-door Chevrolet Spark, a new small car from GM.

The production Spark is reportedly 143.3 in. long and has a 93.5-in wheelbase (the Mini has a 97.1 in. wheelbase). When the Spark goes on sale in Europe, it will come with either a 1.0 or 1.2L 16-valve four-cylinder DOHC gasoline engine on board.

The wedge-like look of the Spark features Chevy’s two-tier grille setup and strongly-creased wheel arches that can house up to 15-in. rims. The Spark’s rear door handles are integrated into the upper part of the door in an effort to preserve the vehicle’s rear-flank lines. Out back, there’s an integrated tailgate spoiler and a new take on Chevrolet’s trademark round taillight setup.

Despite its compact size, GM insists the Spark will have a spacious cabin with interior noise levels on par with larger vehicles. The cabin is highlighted by the Spark’s motorcycle-themed, steering wheel mounted instrument cluster and dual cockpit layout.

Spark is expected to arrive in European dealerships early 2010, followed by other regions including the U.S. reportedly sometime in 2011. Expect a bigger engine for the U.S. market Spark, most likely GM’s 1.4L four cylinder engine.

The DS Inside concept represents the look and shape of Citroen’s future lineup. With it, Citroen plans to fill the small-, lower-medium- and upper-medium-segments with three vehicles. Called DS3, DS4 and DS5, each vehicle will carry premium amenities and a price to match.

With the DS line, Citroen hopes to create “objects of desire, cars that stand apart by their creativity, intelligent design and build quality.”

The DS3 will go on-sale in early 2010, with the DS4 following in 2011.

EDAG, a German design and development firm with a history of producing concept cars for major automakers, has rolled out its latest in-house concept called Light Car — Open Source

Not likely to see production, the Light Car is essentially a demonstration platform for several advanced technologies that may soon find their way to production automobiles. The car’s structure utilizes a new material called basalt fiber that the company claims is lighter and cheaper than aluminum or carbon while retaining the same strength properties of conventional materials, all while being 100% recyclable. Under the car’s glossy exterior, the basalt fiber structure has been designed as a rolling chassis that can have many different body styles attached to it, cutting production costs.

Another key feature of the Light Car is its heavy use of OLED (organic light emitting diodes) both inside the vehicle and out. On the outside, EDAG has embedded OLEDs into the “Makrolon” glass-like surface of the car, allowing either the factory or the end user to design the shapes of the car’s lights to suit their preferences. Further, the car’s tailgate is a transparent display that can be configured to display information to following drivers, such as braking intensity, following distance or obstacles ahead. Inside, OLED displays allow the driver to customize their instrument cluster and controls.

The little Light Car is an electric vehicle propelled by electric motors mounted in the wheel hubs. They draw their energy from lithium-ion batteries on board and can drive the car for 93 miles on a full charge. Thanks to the “monovalent drive system,” the Light Car needs no gasoline engine or gearbox, giving the automaker more freedom in designing the car and allowing them to retain ample interior room in a compact vehicle. The Light Car is just 13.1 feet long and 5.6 feet wide with a wheelbase of 9.5 feet, giving the car very short front and rear overhangs.

Carbon fiber appears to adorn every inch of the Ferrari 599XX supercar, starting at the adjustable splitter attached to a lower, aggressive front nose. The composite undertray continues the length of the car and is bolstered by thicker side skirts directing passing air to its rear carbon ceramic brakes. Likely 19-in. forged one-piece centerlock wheels sit snugly in front of the extra-large binders. Slimmer racing mirrors match the matte black theme on the roof portion of 599XX. In place of regular Maranello glass, racing-style windows have been installed for increased safety and weight reduction. Also on the canopy’s C-pillar are “winglets” ala Ferrari’s 2008 Formula 1 racecar. The exotic’s trunklid hosts a wraparound duckfin spoiler, while the rear gets a complete overhaul with huge diffuser and bumper integrated dual exhaust.

According to Fiat, the 500C is a nod of sorts to a Cinquecento from the past, specifically the 1957 cabriolet. But other than the top, which slides down using a parallelogram hinge system, the convertible 500 sports the exact same dimensions as the 500. Fiat claims luggage space is not compromised and cargo loading is still possible when the top is down — thanks in part to its built-in centrally mounted brake light and clever stowage of the rear glass window. In addition, since the car’s greenhouse sheetmetal remains the same with the top up or down, the 500C offers more wind and element protection than a traditional soft top setup.

Like the hatch, the convertible will be offered with a 68-hp, 75-lb-ft 1.2L I-4, a 99-hp, 97-lb-ft 1.4L I-4, and a 74-hp, 107-lb-ft 1.3L four-cylinder turbodiesel mated to either a five-speed manual or Fiat’s “robotized” Dualogic transmission. The 500C will also be available with Fiat’s new Start&Stop system in an effort to further improve the 500C’s already impressive fuel economy and low emissions.

The top itself will be available in three colors (ivory, red and black) and can be matched with multiple body color combinations, two of which — Pearl Red and a special Warm Grey — were added just for the 500C. No word yet on whether an Abarth edition is planned, but we wouldn’t be surprised to see one later this year. Oh, and if the 500 ever makes it here, Fiat would be well advised to ship a bunch of 500Cs along with it.

The redesigned, wind-tunnel tested Ford Ranger pickup receives a complete revamping both inside and out, and safe to say, it looks pretty well done. Built in Thailand and shipped to Europe for sale, the Ranger can be had in three body styles with two diesel engines — 2.5L Turbo (141-hp/ 243 lb-ft) or 3.0L (154-hp/280 lb-ft) — mated to five-speed automatic or manual transmissions. It can also come in 4×2 or 4×4 configurations for those looking for off-road capability and touts a claimed towing capacity of 3000 kg (6614 lbs). Europeans will get all the new Ranger fun beginning this April.

German boutique supercar builder Gumpert will expand its Apollo lineup by one more model called the Apollo Speed. It joins its siblings the Apollo, Apollo Sport and Apollo Race, and is built especially for all-out, white-knuckle inducing high-velocity road and track travel.

Like the other varieties, the speed is powered by a twin-turbo 4.2L Audi V-8 making 650, 700 or 800 hp, depending on trim and customer requests. Torque is equally astounding: 627, 645, or 664 lb-ft to be exact. It only weighs 2640 lbs, is made out of lightweight composites and aluminum, and can hit a claimed top speed of over 224 mph (gear and power dependant). If that’s not impressive enough, Gumpert says it can accelerate to 62 mph in 3 sec flat and arrive at 124 mph in only 8.9 sec. Power is improved largely by a reengineered less restrictive induction system that feeds the giant snails.

Its exterior still bears the same extra-low slung, lane-filling Gumpert traits, but in speed trim, will flaunt redesigned front fenders, rear taillights and adjustable wing. The mods aid in ultra-high speed runs, so says the automaker. Step — more like flop gracefully –into the bucket seats (which themselves are molded into the composite monocoque) and joyriders will find full air conditioning, removable steering wheel and DVD multimedia system.

When the Hyundai i20 three-door hits the road some time in the second quarter of 2009, Hyundai says it will be the best value in its class and targeted at young professionals that don’t have kids. Slotted between the i10 and i30, the i20 will come with several gas and diesel engines for a total of seven, all of them Euro-IV emissions compliant. Hyundai expects that the volume sellers will be then new Kappa 1.2L gas engine and the 1.4L diesel engine. The Kappa engine is the latest in Hyundai’s new Greek-named engine series, following the Tau V-8, and will pump 77 hp and 88 lb-ft of torque out of its four cylinders. At 182 lbs, Hyundai says it will be the lightest engine in its class and will help the i20 achieve 45 mpg combined while emitting only 0.44 lbs of CO2 per mile. The 1.4L diesel, meanwhile, will churn out 74 hp and pull off 53 mpg combined while emitting only 0.41 lbs of CO2 per mile.

Cosmetically, the i20 three-door is little changed from the five-door. In fact, Hyundai really just took out the rear doors, lengthened the front doors and reshaped the back windows. The front and rear are completely unchanged. Despite the minor design changes, Hyundai did manage to shave 22 lbs off the curb weight, likely thanks to the removal of the extra doors. The i20 three-door will also be mostly the same inside and will come in the same three trim levels — Classic, Comfort and Style — as the five-door.

Initially called HED-6, the Hyundai ix-onic concept is being billed by Hyundai as having a ‘dramatic new look for compact SUVs’ and says it serves an indication of the new direction for Hyundai utes. Judging by the sketch, we’re not so sure it’s all that dramatic, but we’ll see for ourselves shortly. Powering the ix-onic is 1.6L direct-injected and turbocharged gasoline engine producing 168 hp. Mated to a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox that is expected to emit just 0.53 lb. of CO2 per mile.

Fuel economy hasn’t been announced, but it should be impressive thanks to the use of Hyundai’s new Idle, Stop & Go technology that shuts down the engine when the vehicle isn’t moving. At 173.2 in tall, 72.8 in wide and 65 in tall, the ix-onic is two to three inches bigger in every direction than the current Hyundai Tucson, which it’s rumored to replace sometime in the future.

The I.DE.A Institute’s ERA concept was penned last May for the Italian engineering and design firm’s 30th anniversay. I.DE.A, which has worked with Ducati and Fiat, calls the ERA a representation of a roadster built “for pure driving pleasure through the instinctive pencil strokes of the designer on a blank page.” Sure. All we can say is the styling looks like fun. The mechanical bits, however, are not fully-disclosed. Concrete details include underpinnings from an existing monocoque chassis, independent suspension all around, and 19-in. wheels wrapped with 245/40 tires. The ERA’s listed dimensions place it inches longer and wider than a Honda S2000, but much shorter in height.idea-era-side

As to what’s under the hood, we have no idea. The website lists four- or six-cylinder engines, a possible 300 hp, and both front- and rear-drive layouts. Transmissions will be either manual or sequential, with five or six gears. The expected weight is up in the air, too; I.DE.A offers a range from 3,300-lbs to 4,400-lbs.

Infinti’s Essence, created to celebrate the Japanese marque’s 20th anniversary is also a concept car designed specifically to show off Infinti’s next-generation design language and advanced powertrain and safety technology. In the case of the Essence’s hybrid powertrain — a 434-hp 3.7-liter twin-turbo V-6 mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission and a 158-hp electric motor powered by lithium-ion batteries — it should be seen in some form in upcoming production models.

Surrounding the mechanical bits is sheetmetal that is an attractive evolution of the current G37, but shown off on a larger vehicle that comes in at 185.8 in. long, 77.2 in. wide, 51.6 in. tall and rides on a 110.2-in. wheelbase. Characterized by a large grille, bulging fenders and quarter panels, and 20-in. wheels, the Essence possesses an aggressive and menacing stance.

Inside is a driver-centric cockpit and room for two, with each occupant receiving a different interior color scheme — the driver’s side of the cabin is black and the passenger’s is red. Both sides of the cabin are upholstered with Alcantara, leather, and hand-painted wood. In the back is a set of Louis Vuitton luggage designed specifically for the Essence.

Lastly, the Essence features two new safety technologies that will undoubtedly be offered in its production cars before long: Side Collision Prevention and Back-Up Collision Prevention. The first system aims to prevent a side-impact collision that can occur during merging by applying force to individual brakes to create a yaw in the opposite direction if it senses a vehicle in the next lane while the second will first warn the driver and then apply the brakes by itself if it detects an object behind the car during backing up.

“The fastest hybrid concept car in the world” Italdesign’s press release boasts. Italdesign says the unnamed car, co-developed with Brit Frazer Nash, will hit 62 mph in under four seconds on its way to a top speed of 186 mph. And remember how the Quaranta concept got 37.5 mpg? That’s kid’s stuff. This car will travel 31 miles on a quarter of a gallon of gas. Do the math and that works out to 124 mpg. To top it all off, it emits just 0.18 lbs of CO2 per mile. To put that in perspective, the current generation Toyota Prius emits twice as much CO2, 0.37 lb per mile.

The question, of course, is: how do they do it? Careful management of weight appears to be the key here. The body is made of aluminum and carbon, while the chassis itself is made of carbon-fiber. No specific figures have been given, but it will likely weigh in under the Quaranta’s 3100-lb curb weight. As for the power source, Italdesign will only say that the car uses an electric-drive system mated to a “medium-powered” engine. In the Quaranta, it was Toyota‘s 3.3L V-6 and Hybrid Synergy Drive lifted from the Lexus RX 400h, so another Toyota-derived powertrain is a possibility.

In the cockpit, Italdesign promises you’ll find “exquisitely tailored upholstery” and some very comfy seats. In fact, Italdesign boasts that the seat ergonomics were specially researched and engineered by their in-house Italdesign Design Center. On the outside, the provided sketch shows a car reminiscent of contemporary Lamborghinis, some of which designer Fabrizio Giugiaro had a hand in designing.

The No. 3 concept is an MPV vehicle that Kia promises is “fun to drive.” We’ll have to take a spin before we can take their word.

The styling is interesting; the windshield extends to the back of the car, split only by a diagonal support bar. The nose displays the new “face of Kia,” which includes the grille, headlights and badge. We can expect future Kias to have a similar front fascia.

The Quant is an all-new platform Koenigsegg says will expand its range beyond the CCX and CCXR. Rumor has it that the Quant is in fact a four-seater and if the company sticks to what it knows best, the car will likely be faster and more expensive than its German, Italian and British rivals.

Along with the Quant, Koenigsegg also announced a few changes for the CCX line. Most exciting is a new double-clutch gearbox that can handle up to 811 lb-ft of torque and deliver shifts in about 30 milliseconds. The new, paddle-shifted box is nearly a foot shorter than the current transmission for better weight balance and features a new electronic differential to improve performance and handling.

Also new for the CCX line is an all-in-one touchscreen infotainment system. The new system will control the navigation, stereo, iPod interface, climate controls and Bluetooth connectivity. Even better, it will also display engine power and torque, lap times and other performance metrics, similar to the system in the Nissan GT-R. The system will also allow the driver to change traction control, chassis and paddle-shift systems and will be easy to upgrade.

From the Jota editions and Diablo VTs of the 1980s and ’90s, to the more recent Gallardo Superleggera, Automobili Lamborghini has a thing for one-upping itself. So when the revised LP 640 Murcielago bowed in 2007, many figured it was only a question of time before an even faster, more powerful variant emerged. That time has come. Behold the Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce — arguably the meanest, rip-snortin’ Italian Bull Sant’Agata has ever produced.

Being unleashed on the world at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, the SuperVeloce (a nod to the brand’s historic Sport Veloce or SV badge) is capable of some super velocity, with a claimed 212-mph top speed and 3.2-sec dashes to 62 mph.

If you hadn’t already guessed, the 670 in the Murcielago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce’s name stands for 670 horsepower. To the get those extra 30 ponies, Lamborghini started with a massage of its hand built 60-degree 6.5L V-12. The engine airflow system has been revised, and a thorough optimization of valve timing and travel length was performed. Controlling the synchronized operation of the motor’s cylinder banks are a pair of processors keen on sensing when extra cooling and lubrication are needed. A lighter, more robust sounding exhaust system sharply announces each of the 670-hp exotic’s six sequential e.gear shifts. As a no-cost option, owners can opt for a six-speed manual gearbox should they desire. Both transmissions utilize a lighter, dry single disc clutch meant for supreme performance when handling the 487 lb-ft of torque sent to all four-wheels.

Austrian parts supplier and automobile manufacturer Magna Steyr doesn’t plan to sell its Mila EV as shown but intends to use the it as a sales piece for its technology expertise.

Magna, which produces the BMW X3 and European-market Chrysler 300C, designed the Mila with flexibility in mind. As a result, the chassis allows for multiple powertrains and drive configurations. In Geneva trim, a 67-hp electric motor powers the four-door hatchback to a range of just below 100 miles. Its lithium-ion battery recharges in just 2.5 hours.

Behind the 2010 Mazdaspeed3’s smiling face is Mazda‘s familiar 2.3L turbocharged and direct-injected engine. Power is still sent to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission, albeit one with ratios that have been revised for smoother acceleration. Power in the European-spec car, known as the Mazda3 MPS, is unchanged, remaining at 256 hp and 280 lb-ft, good for 0 to 62 mph sprints of 6.1 seconds and a governed top speed of 155 mph. It also wears the same 12.6-in front and 11.0-in rear brakes , though Mazda has added electronic Brake Assist to the ABS and stability control systems.

What’s new then? Well, it now meets the strict Euro-V emissions standards thanks to the world’s first single-nanotechnology catalytic converter. It’s also more efficient, returning 26 mpg combined on the Euro-cycle, an improvement of nearly two mpg over the old car despite a 0.01 increase in the drag coefficient from 0.31 to 0.32. Mazda has also beefed up the frame around the front cowl and rear suspension to stiffen the car up and improve the handling. They even took it out to the Nurburgring to sort out the suspension and make it more stable in turns and especially over broken or wavy pavement. Wider tires on new 18-in wheels no doubt help the cornering performance as well.

The biggest changes, though, are skin-deep. The new Mazdaspeed3’s Nagare-style grinning grille remains largely the same up front, but features reworked air intakes that feed passing air to the brakes more efficiently. Also of note on the front clip is the deletion of lower ducts set below the fog lights. More aggressive side skirts continue the Mazdaspeed theme along the flanks and to the rear, the enhancements culminate with a blacked-out rear diffuser sporting a dual exhaust. A more pronounced wing also perches above the five-door’s hatchback. Bolder fenders house the larger wheel and tire setup, while the bulging hood features a gaping scoop to feed the intercooler.

The Euro-spec and U.S.-spec Mazdaspeed3 aren’t identical, but the Mazda3 MPS should give us a pretty good idea of what to expect from the U.S. model. Though the U.S. car is more powerful than the Euro model, turning out 263 hp and 280 lb-ft, it looks as though we may not see a power increase either. Mazda has also put to bed rumors of an AWD Mazdaspeed3, telling Motor Trend that the AWD system that would fit the car takes up too much space and wouldn’t stand up to the power of the Mazdaspeed3’s engine. We’ll find out all the exact specs on the U.S. model when it debuts at the New York Auto Show in April 2009.

Daimler’s Maybach luxury brand is debuting a new model called the Zeppelin. Touted as the “absolute zenith in high-end luxury” sedans, the Zeppelin lineup — based on the 57 S and 62 S — uses nothing but the best interior materials and employs a more powerful AMG-built V-12 engine.

With the exception of 28 more horses under the hood (for a grand total of 640 hp), the current Maybachs are essentially the same thing — both varieties offer customers with near endless interior and exterior options for the full customization of their “land yachts” — but to stay true to the exclusive Zeppelin moniker, designers implemented a few subtle changes. For instance, new are the set of 20-in. alloys finished in a Chrome Shadow Finish, darker red tinted tail lights out back, sleeker side mirrors and the unmistakable “Maybach Zeppelin” badges plastered on the hood, trunk, door sills, partition and standard issue silver champagne flutes.

However, the Zeppelin’s most highly regarded feature is a world-first plexiglass sphere perfume atomizer ($5104). The Maybach-patented atomizer dispenses a “delicate scent” of the customer’s choice throughout the rear cabin for a refreshing aroma while cruising.

Only 100 editions will be produced for worldwide sale beginning March 3, so those with the funds better act quick. Deliveries are slated for September of this year. Let’s not forget price: An easy 406,000 euro ($523,465) for the 57 Zeppelin and 473,000 euro ($609,850) for its bigger brother, the 62 Zeppelin.

Rather than starting with a concept, Mercedes is blasting straight into the market with the production E-Class coupe which is set make its debut alongside the redesigned E-Class sedan. After its North American debut at the New York auto show in April, it will go on sale in the U.S. in June of this year.

Not a great deal of technical information on the new E-Class coupe or sedan has been made public yet, but one number Benz is making a big deal of when it comes to the coupe is 0.24, its coefficient of drag number that Stuttgart says makes it the most aerodynamically efficient series production vehicle in the world. There are significant styling differences inside and out between the two cars. This is most likely due to the fact that the coupe is not only a variation on the E-Class, but a replacement for the CLK-Class, which is being discontinued.

Starting in the front, the E-Class coupe will stand out with its own grille, featuring fewer, beefier horizontal bars. Gone is the tri-star Mercedes-Benz hood ornament, replaced with a massive tri-star logo in the center of the grille. Down below, the radiator opening in the lower fascia has been slightly revised and is narrower and helps the front end look a bit more aggressive.

Fresh off the heels of the Cooper Convertible’s debut in Detroit, Mini will debut the racing-derived John Cooper Works variant of the drop-top. It’s more powerful, faster and of course, more expensive than the comparatively run-of-the-mill Mini Cooper S Convertible due out next month.

Like the two other models from JCW — the Cooper JCW and Clubman JCW — the convertible receives all the uprated components derived from Cooper’s racing tenure. Stiffer springs and dampers, bigger yet lighter 17-in alloys, stickier rubber, bigger brakes and let’s not forget, a more powerful turbocharged powertrain, are all included in the range-topping edition.

Under the hood, engineers optimized the supply and extraction of air from the intake and exhaust system to improve power to the direct-injected 1.6L four-cylinder. A more robust twin-scroll turbocharger running at 1.3 bar of boost was bolted on and is good for a maximum 208 hp at 6000 rpm and 207 lb-ft at 2000-5300 rpm (with overboost). Mini claims the JCW-prepped convertible can hit 60 mph in 6.6 sec and a top speed of 146 mph, all the while achieving an EPA rated 26 mpg city/ 34 mpg highway. In true JCW fashion, only a six-speed manual transmission will be available.

Inside, all the quirky Mini-esque tidbits such including its aviator-style window switches and huge instrument displays make their way into the JCW drop-top. Appropriate badging inside and out clearly indicates this little Mini is not the garden variety Cooper ‘Vert.

U.S. deliveries are slated for this April at a price of $34,950 (including destination and handling), or around $7500 more than the 2009 Cooper S Convertible.

Like the Mini One, the Mini One Clubman is powered by a 1.4L four producing 95 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque mated to either a standard short shift six-speed manual or the available six-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

When combined with what Mini calls its Minimalism technologies (how clever), including brake regeneration, auto start stop and a shift point display, Mini says the Mini One Clubman can achieve an average fuel economy of 52.3 mpg combined in the European cycle — which equates to about 43.5 mpg in the U.S. — with CO2 emissions of 130g/km. Impressive stuff.

Of course, with that kind of engine, the Mini One Clubman isn’t exactly going to be a screamer, with Mini estimating a 0-62 mph time of 11.6 seconds.

Mitsubishi brought to new versions of its long-hyped iMiev electric car to Geneva, though neither is ready for primetime. One of the two iMievs shown is a prototype of the European-market version, which is slated to go on sale next summer. The diminutive four-seat hatch is 135.8 in. long, 59.8 in. wide, 63.0 in. tall and has a 100.5 in. wheelbase. It is powered by a rear-mounted 63-hp, 113-lb-ft electric motor that feeds off lithium-ion batteries. The main difference between the European version and the Japanese version – which arrives this summer — is the European iMiev’s wider track and extended front and rear overhangs, the latter to meet European pedestrian impact standards and provide better protection in a rear-impact collision.

The second iMiev shown is the iMiev Sport Air. A sportier version of the electric car, this futuristic-looking coupe comes with a lower curb weight (2150 lb vs 2400 lb), 50/50 weight distribution thanks to lighter-weight rear panels, more conventional proportions (it is 143.7 in. long, 63.0 in. wide, and 59.8 in. tall), and a more powerful 81-hp, 170-lb-ft electric motor. It features a clear roof with a solar inlay, a wrap-around cockpit, and a dial-type shifter. Purely a concept car, the iMiev Sport Air is not expected to reach production.

The Qazana will be a crossover that slots beneath the European-market Nissan Quashqai, a close cousin of the U.S.-market Rogue. It will have the design of a five-door hatch albeit with rear-hinged read doors. The product version is expected to arrive sometime in 2010, possibly replacing the Nissan Micra on the assembly line at the Japanese automaker’s plant in Sunderland, England.

Built on the same Voltec platform as the Chevrolet Volt, the Ampera is an Extended-Range Electric Vehicle that will travel up to 60 km (37 mi) on electricity from its battery pack before a gasoline engine kicks on to generate electricity to power the wheels. The battery pack will recharge from a standard 230-volt outlet and is expected to provide more than enough power to allow most European drivers to make their daily commute without the gasoline engine ever starting up. According to GM’s research, 80% of German drivers travel less than 50 km per day.

The Peugeot 3008 is essentially a production version of the Peugeot Prologue HYmotion4 Concept — touted as the French automaker’s first hybrid and first crossover — shown last fall at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. Based on the 308 (hence the extra 0 in the name), the 3008 will go on sale starting this summer in gasoline form, with diesel models arriving in the fall. The hybrid variant will be arriving at a later date, sometime before 2011.

Opting for petrol provides a choice of three 1.6L four-cylinder engines rated at 118-hp and 118-lb-ft, 148-hp and 177-lb-ft, or 154-hp and 177-lb-ft. The 118-hp engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox while the other two use a six-speed. Fuel mileage is expected to range from 31 mpg combined to 33 mpg combined.

Three four-cylinder diesel options will be offered as well: a 1.6L mill rated at 107 hp and 177-lb-ft and two 2.0L mills rated at 148-hp and 251 lb-ft or 161 hp and 251-lb-ft. The 1.6L engine can be mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or an electronically-controlled six-speed manual transmission. The less-powerful 2.0L engine will come with a six-speed manual gearbox only while the more-powerful unit will come with a six-speed automatic. Fuel mileage for diesel engines should start around 41 mpg combined and top out around 48 mpg combined for the 107 hp engine.

As for the hybrid, not much is known save for that it will feature a diesel engine up front and an electric motor in the rear. Should the concept’s specs carry over, the 3008 would use the 161-hp 2.0L diesel engine and with a 36-hp electric motor, the entire hybrid system producing about 197 hp with 221 lb-ft of torque at the front wheels and 148 lb-ft at the rear wheels and return 57 mpg combined while reducing CO2 emissions by as much as 35%.

Porsche has one-upped itself again with the latest 911 GT3. This car is about more: more go, more stop, more control, and of course, more money. The new Porsche 911 GT3 will start at $112,200 when it goes on sale in the U.S. in October.

Go increased by a total of 20 hp to 435 hp. This is fed through a six-speed manual gearbox. To pick up those extra ponies, Porsche bumped displacement by 200cc’s from 3.6L to 3.8L and added its VarioCam adjustable cam timing technology to the exhaust cams as well as the intake cams. In addition to the horsepower boost, Porsche says the GT3 also gets a nice bump in mid-range torque. The extra power is good for a 0-62 mph time of 4.1 seconds, 0-100 mph time of just 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 194 mph.

All that extra thrust has been paired with some extra stopping power. The brakes are bigger, better ventilated and feature an aluminum cover to reduce weight. Optional are Porsche’s PCCB ceramic brakes made specifically for the GT3. Riding over them are lighter wheels that feature a race-inspired center-locking hub rather than lug nuts and Ultra High Performance tires with tire pressure control.

Those who plan to track their GT3 will be happy to know that Porsche did more than add extra oomph to the engines and brakes. Porsche also played with its PASM active suspension and stiffened up the springs and anti-roll bars a bit for even better handling in Sport Mode. Porsche also has set up its PSM stability control system to allow you turn off the Traction Control and Stability Control separately and keep them off, unlike some cars that will still activate the electronic nannies if things get too out of hand. To take things a step further, Porsche is fitting the GT3 with its new Active Drivetrain Mounts. Just as the suspension stiffens up when you put the car in Sport Mode, so too will the drivetrain mounts.

Helping the stiffer suspension hang on to the track are retuned aerodynamics that Porsche says have doubled the downforce the car creates. Air intakes and outlets have been modified, as has the big wing on the back to produce more downforce on the front and rear of the car. Along with the aerodynamic improvements, the GT3 also gets a styling update to match the latest 911s, including Bi-Xenon headlights, LED driving lights and LED tail lights.

The Porsche Cayenne Diesel uses a 3.0-liter V-6 — sourced from the upcoming Audi Q7 TDI — that produces 240 hp and over 405 lb-ft of torque. Even more impressive than the torque figure is the average fuel economy: Porsche cites consumption at 9.3 liters per 100 kilometers, which should translate to 25 mpg, and a 0-62 time of 8.3 seconds. Pricing for the European model begins at 47,250 euro (equal to $60,000 at today’s exchange rates), with plans still underway for its introduction to other markets outside of the EU, which, of course, could mean the U.S.

The Rinspeed E2 concept represents an “answer to the fast changing requirements of the market and sociopolitical perception about the tuning industry,” according to the press release.

The company starts with an Abarth-tuned 160-hp Fiat 500, and outfits the car with an energy management system which the driver can control with a button. In “Commuting” mode, the E2 generates just enough power for city-driving: 60 hp. In this mode, Rinspeed estimates the hatchback will return above 55 mpg. For a bit more enthusiasm, the driver can select “Highway” mode, which provides an additional 100 hp to the near 2000 lb hatch. Here fuel economy falls to a still-respectable 33 mpg, Rinspeed claims.

Swiss Porsche tuner and prototype car builder Rinspeed has been concocting outlandish concepts at Geneva for some time now and the iChange is one of its most innovative yet. The three-passenger car does just as its name suggests: changes from a sleek one-person speedster into a three-person people mover at the press of a button.

As the efficiency of cars becomes their centerpiece, Rinspeed designed the shape-shifting concept to be energy conserving in all forms. It achieves its best fuel economy and least environmental impact while carrying only the driver. With two more on board, the energy consumption increases, but only for the time they are onboard and strapped in, Rinspeed is quick to point out. The iChange features an aerodynamic optimized exterior and is powered by a zero-emission 150 kW lithium ion charged motor.

At the heart and soul of the iChange is a lithium battery supply capable of being stacked in two different configurations depending on drive distance. The batteries allow for a 220 km/h (137 mph) top speed and can propel the 1050 kg (2310 lbs) concept to 62 mph in just above 4 sec., the coachbuilder claims. A six-speed transmission borrowed from Subaru sends the power to the forged 17-in. front and 18-in. rear wheels.

Take a tour of its exterior and the iChange’s uniqueness truly makes its mark. Not only does it appear futuristic, but it actually features a slew of next-generation technologies poised to make it in the mass-produced automotive scene. Solar panels on its roof and flanks provide power to the climate control fans, while at the same time charge the essential battery packs.

No need for clumsy door handles here, the iChange’s roof lifts to let in passengers looking for an eco-friendly ride. Keys are a thing of the past too, with everything in this concept controlled via the driver’s Apple iPhone. Once inside, occupants will be treated to a Harmon Kardon GreenEdge infotainment experience that’s been built to be just as clear, crisp and encompassing as standard audio systems, but of course, at a smaller cost to the environment. Its Intel processor uses less energy and its intelligent navigation directs drivers on a less impactful route. Wool and leather comfort all in this designer cabin space of the future.

Rolls-Royce coyly calls this the 200EX, saying it’s merely a concept that shows the design direction for an as yet unnamed smaller, less expensive sedan designed to sell alongside the stately Phantom. But the production version of this car, code-named RR4, will look virtually identical.

The RR4 will feature the third evolution of Rolls-Royce’s now familiar headlight graphic, first seen on the BMW-designed Phantom, and a variation on the laid-back grille treatment that debuted on the Phantom coupe and convertible. With a ‘faster’ backlight and C-pillar, and convex bodyside, it’s a much more rakish looking sedan than the Phantom, though at 212.6 in long and 61 in tall, it’s still an imposing car.

Despite rumors the RR4 would be heavily based on the new BMW 7-series, Rolls-Royce says the car has a unique unibody “which is not shared with any other vehicle”. The RR4’s proportions, cowl height, and door apertures are totally different to those of the new 7-series; if the two cars share any metal, it’s buried very deep in the structure. The body will be built at BMW’s Dingolfing plant in Germany, then shipped to the purpose-built Rolls-Royce plant in Goodwood, England, for painting, trimming, and final assembly. BMW has added a mezzanine floor to the plant for the trim and wood shops, to create extra room for the RR4 line.

Saab’s new 9-3X wagon is a vehicle similar to the Audi Allroad that, in Saab’s words, will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts looking for an alternative to large SUVs.

To accomplish this task, Saab designers lifted the chassis of the standards 9-3 SpotCombi by 1.4-in and added the company’s “XWD” all-wheel-drive system. With multiple wet clutch plates and an optional rear limited slip differential, the system can dole out torque between the front and rear axles as it sees fit.

To further differentiate from the standard SportCombi, the 9-3X employs new front and rear pumpers, painted a dark gray which stretches to the side sills and wheel arches. Out back, two exhaust pipes poke from the bumper for both engine options.

The Spyker C8 Aileron is poised as a true performance car, and if all goes as planned, it will help boost the brand’s dwindling image and profits.

True to tradition, the C8 Aileron is a mid-engine sports car built upon an all-aluminum frame that utilizes aluminum body panels (the concept version is shown). Aeronautics and motorsport are two major inspirations, and the new car wears numerous jet-like turbine bits, scoops, louvers and spoilers. LED lights are positioned fore and aft, while “Rotorblade” 19-in. wheels set before AP Racing carbon ceramic stoppers culminate the exterior theme.

In the belly of the Dutch car resides an Audi-sourced 400-hp 4.2L V-8 connected to either a six-speed Getrag manual or six-speed ZF automatic transmission. The auto option is a first ever in a Spyker.

It takes around six leather hides to completely line the interior of the Aileron that’s available in 14 colors. Incorporated in the aluminum and leather clad cabin is a seven-speaker multimedia system from famed audio company Kharma. As an option, owners can also place Chronoswiss dials on the dash.

No MSRP has been set, but a price tag of no less than $300,000 is expected.

One of Toyota’s Geneva debuts is the redesigned Verso, Europe’s bigger version of the Matrix. It seats seven thanks to a third row of seats in the back and Toyota has improved its Easy Flat-7 system to allow both the second- and third-row seats to fold flat more easily, creating more room for cargo. Toyota has also stretched the wheelbase and widened the front and rear tracks to make more space for second- and third-row passengers and redesigned the suspension geometry to compensate for the new dimensions.

The Verso will be one of the first platforms to receive Toyota’s new Optimal Drive technology, which incorporates several technologies to reduce engine weight and mechanical losses and to maximize efficiency and minimize emissions. In the Verso, Toyota says the technology has improved fuel economy by up to 20% and emissions up to 12% over the outgoing model.

The Verso will receive 1.6L and 1.8L Valvetronic gas engines mated to a six-speed manual transmission. Toyota’s Multidrive S Continuously Variable Transmission will be available on the 1.8L engine. An updated 2.0L diesel and a carried-over 2.2L diesel will also be offered, and a new six-speed automatic transmission will be come optional for those engines in July.

Although uncertain of its long term future, Volvo is still cranking out vehicle refreshes and introducing new products as much as it can. Case in point, the revised 2010 Volvo S80 sedan — the brand’s flagship four-door — which is scheduled for a U.S. release during the second half of the year.

Under the direction of design head Steve Martin, designers brought out a menacing “boser blick” front end said to add more character while catching the eyes of passersby. Its grille, featuring a re-worked version of Volvo’s larger, trademark iron mask, adds to the more aggressive persona. Revised intakes up front, as well as new rear lights conclude the exterior touchups.

To compete with the stiff luxury segment competition, supple leather with matching stitching lines the seats, dash and doors. The sedan’s super slim floating dash is similar to the new XC60 and is slightly angled towards the driver for more accessibility.

In being simply a refresh, the S80 gets the same engine options as current derivatives. Base and middle trim levels are powered by the 3.2L inline-six and turbocharged 3.0L inline-six, respectively, while higher editions get the brand’s 311-hp 4.4L V-8.

Volkswagen took the cover off its fifth generation Polo at the Geneva Motor Show. Although the new compact is larger and more powerful than its predecessor, the Polo weighs 7.5% less, offers strong fuel economy, and even lower emissions.

The new styling bears a strong resemblance to the striking Scirocco and sixth-generation Golf. The design team at VW has stretched the track to 57.6-in. front and 57.3-in. rear to give a wider stance. The Polo also grows in length by 1.4-in. and in width by 1.2-in., but drops in height by 0.5-in. These changes have increased head, shoulder and legroom as a result, but at an undisclosed amount. The interior also receives white backlit dials and aluminum highlights. Customers can opt for an air conditioned glove box, MP3 capability and a touchscreen satellite navigation system.

New to the Polo lineup are a 105-hp 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a 1.6-liter BlueMotion diesel engine, the latter supplanting the 1.4-liter TDI. Volkswagen claims the new 90-hp diesel will return 74 mpg UK (62 mpg) combined and emit 96 g/km of CO2. Even further, VW will unveil its second generation of BlueMotion diesels in 2010, which will raise the mileage envelope even further through automatic stop-start systems and regenerative braking. All engine options come equipped with five- or six-speed manual transmissions, with an optional seven-speed dual-clutch transmission available on the 80-hp 1.4-liter engine.

Production of the new Polo begins this summer and customers can expect to receive theirs by October. We’re likely to see the refreshed Polo cross the pond in the not-too-distant future.

Coinciding with the 20th anniversary of its factory opening, German boutique automaker Wiesmann will offer a special edition of its MF4. The MF4-S, as it’s called, utilizes the same M3-sourced V-8, but now with 420 hp — some 53 hp over the base model.

Wait, what’s a Wiesmann anyways? The automaker was founded in 1985 by brothers Martin and Friedhelm Wiesmann. Their factory resides in Dulmen, Germany, and produces a smattering of specialty, handmade rear-wheel-drive vehicles every year. Each car receives power from BMW drivetrains; the MF4 with the aforementioned M3 engine (available with either manual or DCT transmissions), and the MF5 with the 5.0L V-10 from the M5.

Wiesmann outfits the special edition MF4-S with a center console engraved with the owner’s name and production number, exclusive embroidery and unique instrumentation. Wiesmann will produce only 30 examples of the MF4-S.

Italian automotive design and engineering group Zagato is showing its Perana Z-One at Geneva, and its Alfa-8C-Aston-DBS-lovechild styling is gorgeous. From the exaggerated aggression in the front to the artful lines in the rear, the implicit Italian design isn’t likely to find many detractors. It even holds true to Zagato’s history, with a nose and headlights that harks back to the Lamborghini-powered Raptor of 1996.

A Corvette-sourced 6.2L V-8 will provide somewhere north of 430 hp and propel the coupe to 62 mph in around four seconds, and that just 999 units will be available. Pricing is not known at this point but speculation is ranging anywhere from $64,000 and $115,000 — we’re betting on a price closer to the six-figure estimate.